Postdoctoral Fellowship in Polymer and Organic Chemistry for Photodegradable Vinyl-Based Polymer Networks

An 18-month postdoctoral fellowship is available at the University of Bordeaux, France, focusing on the development of new cross-linkers for photodegradable vinyl-based polymer networks. The project, part of the Grand Programme de Recherche: Post-Petroleum Materials (PPM), aims to advance polymer recycling by designing cross-linkers that enable radical generation and selective chain cleavages under irradiation. This facilitates the planned disposal and recycling of polymers such as polystyrenes and polymethacrylates, improving the recovery of monomers and high-value chemicals from plastic waste. The position is shared between the Laboratory of Chemistry of Organic Polymers (LCPO, UMR 5629) and the Institute of Molecular Sciences (ISM, UMR 5255), under the supervision of Dr. Audrey Llevot and Dr. Philippe Hermange. The research will involve synthesis and characterization of molecules and macromolecules, with a strong emphasis on organic and polymer chemistry, photodegradable materials, and recycling technologies. Applicants should hold a PhD in Polymer Chemistry or Organic Chemistry and demonstrate expertise in relevant synthesis and characterization techniques. The fellowship is fully funded for 18 months, but specific financial details are not provided. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and motivation letter to the supervisors via email. Applications are open until the position is filled. Key research areas include polymer chemistry, organic chemistry, photodegradable polymers, cross-linkers, radical photogeneration, and recycling of vinyl-based polymer networks. The opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in innovative materials science and sustainable chemistry.